Method and apparatus for powering remote devices

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for powering one or more remotely-situated devices. In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, energy is added (at a convenient location) to a medium that the remotely-situated devices are associated with (e.g., a medium that the remotely-situated devices are sensing, controlling, alarming, etc). The energy is removed from the medium near to the remotely-situated devices. If required, the energy is converted to a form that is useable by the remotely-situated device. The removed energy is delivered to the remotely-situated devices and is used by them to perform an action that is associated with the medium (e.g., sensing a characteristic of the medium, controlling a characteristic of the medium, providing an alarm responsive to a value of a characteristic of the medium, etc.

STATEMENT OF RELATED CASES

This case claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application60/351,258, which was filed on Jan. 23, 2002 and is incorporated byreference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to remotely-operated devices, including,without limitation, sensors, controllers and alarms.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sensors, actuators/controlling devices (hereinafter “controllers”), andalarms are used for a variety of purposes and in many differentapplications, both industrial and consumer. There are many differenttypes of sensors, controllers and alarms. And some of such devices havea singular function (i.e., sensing, controlling, or alarming). Othersperform multiple duties, such as sensing and controlling, sensing andalarming, or sensing and alarming and controlling.

These devices are typically positioned at a variety of locationsthroughout a system in order to acquire data, take or control someaction, or provide an alarming function. Usually, the devices are at“remote” locations; that is, they are sited at a location that is remotefrom a central monitoring area, etc.

Regardless of their functionality, almost all of these remotely-locateddevices require a power supply to operate properly. Sensors requirepower to change a native signal that they measure into a moreconveniently-transmittable signal. Controllers and alarms requiresignificantly more power than is usually available in the transmittedsignal to either control the media or create an alert signal.

The current state of power requirements for sensors, controllers, andalarms are summarized as follows.

SENSORS: a few examples of sensors include current sensors, energysensors, flow sensors, humidity sensors, light sensors, particlesensors, pressure sensors, proximity sensors, radiation sensors,temperature sensors, velocity sensors, voltage sensors, weight sensors.

Two important purposes of sensors are (1) to determine a specificcharacteristic of matter and (2) to transmit information regarding thischaracteristic to another device (e.g., a central processing system or acontroller/alarm, etc.).

Typically, the matter being measured is a solid, liquid, gas, ormixtures thereof. The characteristic being measured is often a propertyof the matter, such as temperature, flow, or weight. But a sensor mightalternatively be measuring a more intangible quality, such as, withoutlimitation:

-   -   The amount of a particular chemical in a certain volume of air.    -   The speed of a particle relative to another particle.    -   The amount of radiation being emitted from an item.    -   The intensity of light landing on a surface.    -   The amount of a substance passing by or through a location.

Sensors utilize various methods of transforming the measured quantityinto a transmittable signal. They all start with a “native” measuringcharacteristic, then often change this to a “transmittable”characteristic if the native characteristic is not well suited fortransmission to the monitoring system and/or controller and/or alarm.

Typically, signal(s) from a sensor are converted into a voltage,current, or frequency output and conveyed over a transmission medium(e.g., wires, fiber, etc.) to a processing system or other device. Thesignal(s) can alternatively be transmitted wirelessly via variousmethods, such as by using radio waves, microwaves, light waves, soundwaves, and the like. In some cases, the native signal is not converted;rather, it is amplified for transmission. In some cases, the signal isdigitized for transmission.

This conversion from “native” to the “transmittable” signal requires apower source of some type, which is situated either local to the sensoror remote from it. A few examples follow to demonstrate certain issuespertaining to native and transmittable signals.

EXAMPLE 1 Thermocouple

A typical temperature sensor can include a thermocouple, which is twodissimilar metals joined together mechanically and electrically. Thecharacteristics of these dissimilar metals create a known voltagepotential at their junction, wherein the voltage potential can becorrelated to a temperature. By measuring this very small voltage, thetemperature at the junction of the dissimilar metals can be accuratelydetermined. (See, FIG. 1)

The native measured characteristic of this type of sensor is the voltagecreated at the junction. This voltage potential is very small and haslimitations. In particular, the voltage cannot be transmitted very farwithout degradation and it is not in a form that can be transmittedwirelessly.

A typical solution to these limitations is to provide a transducer forconverting the very small native voltage signal proportionately into ahigher voltage signal, a current signal, or a wireless signal (such asRF or IR). This transducer requires a source of power to amplify thevoltage and/or change its form.

EXAMPLE 2 RTD

Another example of a temperature sensor is an RTD, or ResistanceTemperature Device. This type of sensor utilizes a material having aknown electrical resistance at a specific temperature. When placed in alocation at which temperature measurement is desired, the resistance ofthe sensor changes as a function of the temperature. By measuring theresistance, the temperature at the sensor can be determined. (See, FIG.2)

The native measured characteristic of this type of sensor is resistance.But “resistance” is not a signal that can be transmitted—it's a propertyof the sensor. The resistance must be measured and transduced before itcan be transmitted.

A common solution to this limitation is to pass a known voltage acrossthe sensor and measure the resultant current flow through the sensor.This current flow is proportional to the resistance (and therefore themeasured temperature) and becomes the transmittable signal. This processrequires a power source to create the known voltage and, in many cases,to either amplify the voltage or to convert it further to a signal thatcan be transmitted wirelessly.

EXAMPLE 3 Humidity Sensor

A humidity sensor measures the amount of moisture in air. Some humiditysensors use a “CAB” element. The resistance of a CAB element changes asa function of the moisture content in an air stream. Once again, thenative resistance characteristic—resistance—must be transduced and apower supply is required.

EXAMPLE 4 Photovoltaic Sensor

A photovoltaic sensor measures the amount of light striking a surface.The sensor uses a light-sensitive element, which creates a voltage andcurrent flow that is directly proportional to the amount and intensityof the light striking its surface. This current source is ofteninsufficient for direct transmission, so it is converted to another formor amplified.

CONTROLLERS: a few examples of controllers include baffles, controldampers, control valves, filters, lenses, magnetic devices, restrictors,rheostats, variable frequency drives.

An important purpose of a controller is to vary, modulate or change aspecific characteristic of matter based upon a signal of some type froma processing system or a sensing device. The matter being controlled isa typically a solid, liquid, gas, or mixtures thereof. Thecharacteristic of the matter that is being controlled is often aproperty of the matter, such as its temperature, flow, or weight. But acontroller might alternatively be controlling a more intangible quality,such as:

-   -   The amount of a particular chemical in a certain volume of air.    -   The speed of a particle relative to another particle.    -   The amount of radiation being emitted from an item.    -   The intensity of light landing on a surface.    -   The amount of a substance passing by or through a location.

A controller typically receives a signal from a sensor or other device.The signal is then “transformed” into a controlling action. In mostcases, the form of the signal being sent is not well suited toperforming the controlling action. Consequently, it is usually convertedfrom an easily transmittable form to a form that is better forcontrolling.

This conversion from a “transmittable” signal to a “usable” signalrequires a power source of some type, which is situated either local tothe controller or remote from it. Consider the following exampleinvolving a typical process-control valve.

The typical function of a process-control valve is to modulate a flow ofa fluid. The valve typically receives a signal over wire, fiber, or theair. The transmittable signal is typically one of the following signals:a 0-10 volt, low current signal, a 4-20 mA low voltage signal, a PWM(Pulse Width Modulated) low power signal, an RF signal, or an IR signal.

The energy required to properly control the fluid is usually far greaterthan any of these “transmittable” signals can supply. Consequently, alocal power supply and transducer is typically provided on the valve forconverting the transmittable signal to a “usable” signal.

For instance, in a typical application, a digital RF signal is receivedat the valve. The power of this signal is very small, and cannot operatethe valve. But the signal can, however, be used to control the flow of alarger power source, which then operates the valve.

ALARMS: a few examples of alarms include bells, electronic alarms,lights, noisemakers, opaquing devices, strobes, temperature-changingdevices, vibrations, whistles and the like.

A key purpose of an alarm is to alert a person or another deviceresponsive to a signal of some type from a processing system or asensing device.

The alarm typically receives a signal from a sensor or other device. Thealarm then transforms the signal into an alerting function. In mostcases, the signal that is received by the sensor is in a form that isnot well suited to performing the alerting function. As a consequence,the received signal is advantageously converted from an easilytransmittable form to a form that is more suitable for carrying out thealerting function.

This conversion from a “transmittable” signal to a “usable” signalrequires a power source of some type, which is sited either local to thealarming device or remote from it. Consider an alarm bell as an exampleof an alarming device.

An alarm bell is typically used to alert people to a specific conditionthat has been measured by a sensor. The alarm bell usually receives asignal either over wire, fiber, or wirelessly. The transmittable signalis typically one of the following signals: a 0-10 volt, low currentsignal, a 4-20 mA low voltage signal, a PWM (Pulse Width Modulated) lowpower signal, an RF signal, or an IR signal.

The energy required to properly ring the bell is usually more than anyof these “transmittable” signals can supply. Consequently, a local powersupply and a transducer are provided, which converts the received signalto a “usable” signal of sufficient power.

For instance, in a typical application, a digital RF signal is receivedat the bell. The power of this signal is very small so that it cannot beused to operate the bell. But, this signal can be used to control theflow of a larger power source, which then operates the bell.

COMBINATION DEVICES: In some cases, either one, two, or three of thetypes of devices described above are combined into a single device.Examples include, without limitation, a sensor with a built-in alarm, asensor with a built-in controller, a sensor with a built-in controllerand alarm. In all of these cases, it is rare that the native measuringcharacteristic of the sensor will be able to power either the controldevice or the alarm device without some type of conversion,amplification and an additional power source.

One of the following methods is typically used in the prior art forsupplying power to remotely-located sensors, controllers and alarms.

1. Independently Hard Wired

In this arrangement, power is delivered to the device using anindependent power-distribution system. The distribution system is oftenrun alongside the signal wires in wired applications. In wirelessapplications, the power-distribution wires are run alone. See FIG. 3(wired application) and FIG. 4 (wireless application).

In FIG. 3, a sensor assembly (1) measures temperature using an RTD (1a), which has a resistance value that is proportional to the ambienttemperature. The Data Gathering Panel (2) sends a voltage to the sensoron power supply lines (3). The voltage is used by the sensor electronicpackage (1 b) to amplify and transduce the resistance signal into atransmittable signal. The transmittable signal is returned to the datagathering panel (2) along signal wires (4).

In FIG. 4, a sensor assembly (1) measures temperature using an RTD (1a), which has a resistance value that is proportional to the ambienttemperature. The Power Supply (4) sends a voltage to the sensor on powersupply lines (3). The voltage is used by the sensor electronic package(1 b) to amplify and transduce the resistance signal into atransmittable RF signal. The transmittable signal is returned to thedata gathering panel (2) over the air.

The wireless sensor gains benefit from the fact that: (1) severalsensors can be powered from one set of power wires; and (2) the powerwires can be run from a power supply that is located closer to thesensor, rather than from a power supply at the data gathering panel; and(3) no wires are required for sending the signal back to the datagathering panel. All of these attributes reduce the amount of wiringrequired, thereby lowering the installation cost.

The cost to install the power-supply wire in both of these cases is,however, still of great significance. In fact, the cost of providingpower-supply wires to a sensor is usually in excess of 5 to 20 times thecost of the sensor itself.

Additionally, the quality of the signal being transmitted can beadversely affected when power wires and signal wires are run together.Also, many municipal codes have more costly requirements for runningpower-source wiring as opposed to signal wiring.

2. Signal/Power Combination

In this scenario, power is supplied to the device over the same wire(s)as the transmitted signal is returned. See FIG. 5. A sensor assembly (1)measures temperature using an RTD (1 a), which has a resistance valuethat is proportional to the ambient temperature. The Data GatheringPanel (2) sends a voltage to the sensor on combination power/signallines (3). The voltage is used by the sensor electronic package (1 b) toamplify and transduce the resistance signal into a multiplexed signal.The multiplexed signal is returned to the data gathering panel (2) alongthe same wires that supplied the power to the sensor (3).

While this scenario is less costly, in terms of wiring, than theindependently hard wire method described above, the cost and complexityof both the sensor and panel is substantially increased since both powerand signal are being multiplexed on the same set of wires. Additionally,as in scenario “1” above, many municipal codes have more costlyrequirements for running power source wiring as opposed to signalwiring, and classify this as power wiring.

3. Local Battery

An alternative method of supplying power to remote sensors andcontrolling/alarm devices is to provide a local battery in the device,which powers the transducers and transmitters. See, FIG. 6.

In this scenario, a sensor assembly (1) measures temperature using anRTD (1 a), which has a resistance value that is proportional to theambient temperature. The local battery (1 c) sends a voltage to thesensor electronic package (1 b) for amplifying and transducing theresistance signal into a transmittable RF signal. The transmittable RFsignal is returned to the data-gathering panel (2) over the air.

Advances in technology have enabled sensors and some controlling/alarmsto have lower power requirements, making this technology more feasible.Yet, batteries have a finite storage capacity and need to be changedregularly. Additionally, they add weight and size to the device.

As discussed above, all sensors, controllers and alarms need a source ofpower to operate. In some cases, the power is for converting a signal toa more transmittable or usable form. In others, the power is required torun an on-board microprocessor for scaling or other functions.

When power is brought to a device using wires, there are many problemswhich arise. In particular:

-   -   Significant additional cost is incurred—The cost to provide        power wires to a typical air temperature sensor on an HVAC        system is usually in excess of 5 to 20 times the cost of the        sensor itself. This cost factor greatly increases as the        complexity of the area being wired increases. For example, the        cost of wiring is substantially increased when wires must be run        in explosion-proof areas or in a human body.    -   Interference and Noise—When power wiring is run together with        signal wires, the quality of the signal that is being        transmitted can be adversely affected. This can be mitigated by        adding shielding to the wire and the devices, but at an        additional cost.    -   Chance of infection—When wires are run through a living body,        there is a substantial risk of complications.    -   Loss of Flexibility—When a device is powered by wires, its        location cannot be easily changed since to do so, wires would        have to be re-routed. In many cases, moving a sensor a few feet        can be extremely expensive due to the wiring. In other cases,        movement of a wired sensor might not be possible without a        facility shutdown due to unique characteristics of the        environment, such as in the case of an explosion proof location.    -   Time to install—When a device must be powered by wires, it takes        significant additional time to install. The mounting of the        device is usually a very small portion of the total time to        install, while the wiring is the major portion of time.

An alternative currently being used to eliminate the power distributionnetwork is to provide a storage battery in the device, as noted inscenario “3-Local Battery” above. This, however, introduces many otherproblems, such as:

-   -   Costly Maintenance requirements—Batteries have a short life, and        must usually be changed several times per year. Even with        advanced battery technology, the cost of the labor required to        visit each sensor or controlling/alarming device in large        systems on a regular basis usually makes this solution        economically unfeasible. Additionally, the lifespan of a battery        in a sensor, controlling device, or alarming device is        irregular, since the load on the battery is not always uniform.        This can lead to failures at random times, potentially causing        unexpected shutdowns in the equipment being controlled or        monitored.    -   Costly and Large battery size—High power requirement devices        need very large batteries to store ample power for long periods.        This is both costly and can be prohibitive in applications where        size is critical.    -   Dangerous and/or disruptive to change batteries—In many        locations, it is not desirable to visit the sensor, controller,        or alarming device due to dangerous conditions. For example,        going into a living organism to change the batteries on a device        is not desirable. Similarly, entering into certain process areas        is undesirable, such as “hot zones” of biological research areas        or nuclear facilities.

A more desirable sensor, controller and alarm would be one which:

-   -   Does not require power wires.    -   Does not require extensive maintenance (such as frequent battery        changes).    -   Does not take up an inordinate amount of space (such as from a        large storage battery).    -   Is not heavier than required (such as from a large storage        battery).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An apparatus and method for powering remote devices are disclosed. Insome embodiments, the remote devices are used to providing sensing,controlling or alarm functions (or combinations thereof) in conjunctionwith a system (e.g., hvac, etc.). In accordance with the presentinvention, power for the remote devices is transmitted through themedium (e.g., air, etc.) that the devices are sensing, controlling oralarming. This is quite different from the prior art, wherein a separateenergy transmission system or on-board power supply is typically used toprovide energy to the remote device.

For the purposes of this specification, the phrase “perform(ing) anaction associated with the medium,” is used to refer to remote devicessuch as, without limitation, sensors, controllers, and alarms thatinteract with the medium or to refer to the functionality that theyperform, such as, without limitation, sensing a characteristic of themedium (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc.), controlling anelement that affects a characteristic of the medium (e.g., a controlvalve, a damper, etc.), and sending an alarm when a value of acharacteristic of the medium exceeds, falls below or otherwise deviatesfrom a desired value or range of values (e.g., a high or low temperaturealarm, a low flow alarm, etc.).

In the illustrative embodiments, energy is input (as required) into thesystem in a form that is easily transmitted by the medium, withdrawnnear the point of use (i.e., near the remote device), and converted (asrequired) into a usable form. Furthermore, in some embodiments, theenergy flow to the remote device is regulated, such as by storing energyin a capacitance device or by flowing energy through a regulating deviceto account for fluctuations in the conversion rate.

An apparatus and method in accordance with invention significantlyreduces first costs and ongoing maintenance costs relative to devicesand method currently being used to provide power to remote devices.

The present invention takes advantage of the fact that most sensors,controllers and alarms are located in or near the medium that they aresensing, controlling, or alarming. Most of these mediums already containseveral different forms of energy. The energy is present as aconsequence of (1) the inherent characteristics of the medium itself; or(2) being inserted into the medium to be transported; or (3) beingspecifically added to the medium at one point to be removed later. A fewexamples of the types of energy found in these mediums include:

Kinetic Energy Potential Energy Mass Energy Heat Energy Wave EnergyNuclear Energy Photo-electric Energy Chemical Energy Magnetic energyTemperature Sound Power Gravitational energy Centrifugal energy PressureVelocity

Energy can be readily added to the medium to supply power to a remotedevice. For example, in systems in which the medium is air or water: (1)static pressure can be added to the system; (2) additional volume of themedium can be added; (3) temperature can be increased, etc. The addedpressure, volume and temperature can be readily removed at some otherlocation, providing power for the remote device, while otherwiseenabling the system to operate properly. The addition of energy can besimilarly accomplished in systems that transmit any fluid or gas, light(fiber optics), sound, heat, chemical energy, etc.

Some embodiments of an apparatus and method in accordance with theillustrative embodiment are capable of:

-   -   adding “surplus” energy into the system in one location;    -   moving the surplus energy within the medium to another location;        and    -   removing the surplus energy.

This is illustrated schematically in FIG. 7. In operation (A), energy isadded to medium (B) that the remote device is sensing, controlling, oralarming. This energy can be in any form and can be added to the mediumat any convenient location, which is not necessarily near the remotedevice.

Typical reasons for adding energy to the medium are to move it, store itmore compactly or safely, protect it from breaking down, etc.Alternatively, energy can be purposefully added during this operationsolely to be removed later at another location to power the remotedevice. The energy, as added to the medium, is most likely not in a formthat is usable to the sensor, controller or alarm. The energy must be ina form and present in a quantity that does not substantially affect thefunctioning of the system that surrounds the medium.

In energy-removal operation (C), a small amount of the added energy isremoved from the medium. Energy removal advantageously occurs at alocation that is near to the remote device (H). The removed energy isdelivered to energy conversion device (D), which configured to acceptenergy of the type offered by the medium and convert it to a form ofenergy (E) that is usable by the remote device. The converted energy (E)is transmitted to capacity and regulation device (F), which removes anyfluctuations and otherwise provides regulated energy (G) to the remotedevice (H).

For illustrative purposes, FIG. 8 a shows how the inventive apparatusand method can be used in conjunction with an otherwise conventionalpumping system for moving a medium (i.e., water in this example) fromone location to another. Reservoir I (1), which contains water as amedium (2), is connected to another reservoir II (3) via a length ofpipe (4). Pump (5) adds energy (6) to medium (2) to move it through pipe(4) from reservoir I to reservoir II.

Energy conversion device (8) is connected to pipe (4) about halfwaybetween the two reservoirs. The energy conversion device removes a smallamount of energy (7) from the water and converts it into a usable formof power (9). This unregulated power (9) is sent through a capacity andregulation device (10), which provides a regulated, stable supply ofpower (11) for a remote device (12).

By way of analysis, consider the relative energy content of the mediumas it moves through the system. In reservoir I and II, the water has a“zero” reference energy level; it contains no relative kinetic energybecause it is not moving and no relative potential energy because it isat the same pressure and height in both reservoirs. Pump (5) addspotential and kinetic energy to the water. In particular, pump (5)increases the pressure of the water in the pipe and gives it velocity,moving it towards reservoir II.

FIG. 8 b depicts the relative energy levels in the pipe. As shown inthat Figure:

-   -   Between points A and B1, the water is at reference zero, in        reservoir I.    -   Between points B1 and B2, the pump is adding energy to the        water.    -   Between B2 and C1, the resistance of pipe (4) (e.g., due to the        roughness of the interior surface, etc.) gradually converts at        least some of the energy that is inserted into the water by the        pump into other forms, such as heat, noise, etc. The energy loss        is linear in this example because the pipe is assumed to be        straight, with no obstructions, bends, or changes in height, and        no changes in roughness.    -   Between C1 and C2, energy is removed from the water and directed        to energy conversion device (8).    -   Between C2 and D, the pipe losses once again bring the energy        level down to reference zero, where the medium leaves the pipe        and enters reservoir II.

It is notable that the energy removed between points C1 and C2 does notaffect the movement of the water through the system because thatadditional amount of energy was added to the medium in the pump. Ifenergy conversion device (8) were not present in the system, pump (5)would have only been required to move the energy level of the water frompoint B1 to point B2′ in order for it to have had enough energy to moveto reservoir II.

The illustrative embodiment of the present invention eliminates the needfor a separate power distribution system for supplying power to sensors,controllers and alarms. This provides many advantages over the priorart. In particular:

-   1. First costs are significantly reduced compared to hard-wired    implementations of the remote devices, since a power distribution    system is no longer required.-   2. Wireless implementations of the remote devices become    economically feasible because their extensive maintenance    requirements are reduced. There is no need to change batteries and    costs associated with unexpected maintenance due to early battery    failure are eliminated.-   3. The size of wireless implementations of the remote devices is    reduced.-   4. The likelihood of noise entering the remote device is reduced or    substantially eliminated. When using the power distribution systems    of the prior art, stray interference can be picked up from “noisy”    devices or wires that are encountered over the long runs of the    power distribution system.-   5. Moving the sensors, actuators, or alarms as might be required, is    much easier, since the power distribution system no longer exists.-   6. The time required to install sensors, controllers, and alarms is    significantly reduced, since wiring the power distribution system    (in prior art systems) is the major component of time required for    the installation of these devices.-   7. Devices located in hazardous areas need not be serviced    regularly, unlike the battery-operated devices of the prior art.-   8. In applications where components are placed into a living    organism, infection can sometimes be a problem with wires, and    battery-operated devices add a maintenance burden. Embodiments of    the invention overcome both these drawbacks. In particular, a    wireless sensor, controller or alarm that is powered in accordance    with the present teachings utilizing, for example, the bloodstream    as a power distribution media, would require less maintenance than a    battery operated device and no wires would be required to penetrate    the organism's skin.-   9. As applied to micro-electromechanical systems (“MEMS”)    technology, the present teachings can be used to reduce the space    required for a MEMS device and its associated power source.    Eliminating battery sources, large power distribution systems, and    multiple points of power input, in favor of inputting energy in one    location and distributing energy as part of an existing transport    network, can significantly reduce space and weight.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1—Thermocouple Example (Prior Art)

FIG. 2—RTD Example (Prior Art)

FIG. 3—Hard Wired Sensor (Prior Art)

FIG. 4—Wireless Sensor with Power Wires (Prior Art)

FIG. 5—Sensor with Multiplexed Power and Signal (Prior Art)

FIG. 6—Wireless Sensor with Local Battery (Prior Art)

FIG. 7—Method and Apparatus in accordance with the illustrativeembodiment of the present invention

FIG. 8 a—Illustrative embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 8 b—Energy diagram for the embodiment of FIG. 8 a

FIG. 9—Method in accordance with the illustrative embodiment of thepresent invention

FIG. 10—Apparatus in accordance with the illustrative embodiment of thepresent invention

FIG. 11—Illustrative energy conversion device in accordance with theillustrative embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 12—Illustrative capacity and regulation device in accordance withthe illustrative embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 13—Illustrative wireless sensor in accordance with the illustrativeembodiment of the present invention

FIG. 14 a—Conventional wireless sensor and its operation

FIG. 14 b—Energy diagram for the conventional wireless sensor of FIG. 14a.

FIG. 15 a—Energy flow in an apparatus in accordance with theillustrative embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 15 b—Energy diagram for the apparatus depicted in FIG. 15 a

FIG. 16—Illustrative embodiment for adding energy to the system:pressure bleed generation

FIG. 17—Illustrative embodiment for adding energy to the system: inlinegeneration (Ex. 1)

FIG. 18—Illustrative embodiment for adding energy to the system: inlinegeneration (Ex. 2)

FIG. 19—Illustrative embodiment for adding energy to the system: inlinegeneration (Ex. 3)

FIG. 20—Illustrative embodiment for adding energy to the system: inlinegeneration (Ex. 4)

FIG. 21—Illustrative embodiment for extracting energy from the system:heat pipe

FIG. 22—Illustrative embodiment for extracting energy from the system:temperature difference

FIG. 23—Pressure Change Generation (Ex. 1)

FIG. 24—Ratcheting Pinion

FIG. 25—Pressure Change Generation (Ex. 2)

FIG. 26—Optical Bleed Generation

FIG. 27—Level Changing Generation

FIG. 28—Chemical Bleed Generation

FIG. 29—Non-Bleed Chemical Generation (Ex. 1)

FIG. 30—Non-Bleed Chemical Generation (Ex. 2)

FIG. 31—Inline Wave Generation

FIG. 32 a—Cavitation Induced Generation—Schematic

FIG. 32 b—Cavitation Induced Generation—Pres. Chart

FIG. 32 c—Cavitation Induced Generation—Equipment 1

FIG. 32 d—Cavitation Induced Generation—Equipment 2

FIG. 33—Static Generation

FIG. 34—Sound/Wave Powered Generation

FIG. 35—Centrifugal Generation

FIG. 36—Battery Operated Flush Valve

FIG. 37—120 VAC Operated Flush Valve

FIG. 38—Auto Flush Valve

FIG. 39—Conventional sensor/alarm

FIG. 40—Sensor/alarm in accordance with the illustrative embodiment ofthe present invention

FIG. 41—Schematic flowchart for the sensor/alarm of FIG. 40

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A First Illustrative Embodiment

A first illustrative embodiment of the present invention is an apparatusand method for:

-   -   transporting the energy needed to power a duct-mounted,        wireless, air-temperature sensor through the medium it is        sensing (air); and    -   locally converting the energy to a form usable to the sensor.

A flow chart depicted in FIG. 9 describes the process. In operation (1)a small amount of additional energy is input into the medium (air). Inthis embodiment, energy addition is performed by increasing the amountof static pressure applied to the air in the duct in order to move italong the duct.

In operation (2), the energy is moved along the duct in the medium,until it reaches the point of withdrawal. In this embodiment, theadditional static pressure is retained in the air until it reaches thepoint of withdrawal, local to the sensor.

In operation (3), the additional energy is withdrawn from the medium(air). Energy loss at this point is possible due to the inefficienciesof the energy-withdrawal device. In this first illustrative embodiment,energy withdrawal takes place by permitting some of the air in the ductto vent, thereby reducing the static pressure in the duct back to alevel where it would have been had the additional static pressure notbeen introduced at the fan.

In operation (4), the energy removed is converted to electricity at avoltage equal to that required by the sensing device. In thisembodiment, conversion is performed by impinging vented air against aturbine/fan to create rotation and drive a small generating device.

In operation (5), the energy from the generating device is regulated toassure that the sensor receives a steady supply of energy, regardless ofany fluctuations in the energy withdrawing process or the energyconversion process. In this embodiment, the energy conversion isperformed by running the current through a regulating circuit and astorage capacitor, well known to those skilled in the art.

In operation (6), energy is delivered to the sensor in the form that thesensor requires for use in its internal processes. In this embodiment,the energy is in the form of electrical energy supplied by local wires.

Four components required for accomplishing this process are depicted inFIG. 10:

-   -   1. A fan assembly (1) as an energy input device, comprising:        -   fan motor (1 a);        -   shaft and Rotating Blades (1 b); and        -   fan Housing (1 c).    -   2. Air (2) as the medium being sensed.    -   3. Ductwork (3) as the container of the medium.    -   4. The Siphoning Sensor Assembly (4) consisting of the following        components        -   duct-mounted Energy Conversion Device (4 a);        -   capacity and Regulating Device (4 b); and        -   wireless Temperature Sensing Device (4 c).

The fan assembly (1) consists of a fan motor (1 a), shaft/rotatingblades (1 b), and a housing (1 c). Power input into the motor causes theblades to rotate in the housing, which in turn causes the air to movethrough the fan. The static pressure of the air at the outlet of the fanhas been increased in this process. The construction and design of fansis well known to those skilled in the art.

Air (2), the medium, moves through the fan and ductwork, always at aslightly different static pressure. Ductwork (3) is a constrainingmechanism consisting usually of a rigid sheet metal designed to controlthe direction of the airflow. It is well known to those skilled in theart.

The siphoning sensor (4) is located at the desired point of temperaturemeasurement. In some embodiments, siphoning sensor (4) includes threemain components: energy conversion device (4 a), capacity and regulatingdevice (4 b), and wireless sensor (4 c).

The energy conversion device (4 a) is depicted in FIG. 11. In theillustrative embodiment, energy conversion device (4 a) includes pickuptube (4 a-1), which penetrates through the duct so that it can extract,or siphon, some energy out of the air stream. The material for pickuptube (4 a-1) and the housing must be capable of withstanding the ductpressure design, as well as the other design conditions of the duct suchas temperature, humidity level, etc.

In some embodiments, this device siphons energy from the air stream byremoving a small volume of air at a high static pressure (4 a-2) andallowing it to expand through a nozzle (4 a-3) and slow to a lowerpressure air (4 a-5) against a turbine fan (4 a-4). This causes the fanto spin, subsequently causing the generating device (4 a-6) to spin andgenerate a voltage/current source in power supply wires (4 a-7). Thedesign of the nozzle, vent port, fan, and generating device would bechosen to create a voltage and current source consistent with the needsof the temperature sensor, in known fashion.

The manufacture and application of nozzles, vent ports, turbine fans,and generating devices of this type are well known to those skilled inthe art. It will be understood that the shape and dimensions of thenozzle and turbine fan can vary (e.g., propeller-type fan, squirrelcage, etc.). That is, any design that is capable of venting the air fromthe duct to achieve the requisite rotational speed of the generatingdevice to satisfy the power requirement of the specific sensor cansuitably be used.

FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative embodiment of capacity and regulatingdevice (4 b). This device includes devices and circuits that regulatethe flow of voltage and current to a set parameter, which in this caseis the exact requirements of the sensor being powered.

Unconditioned energy (4 b-1) from energy conversion device (4 a) enterscapacity and regulating device (4 b) and is directed to the regulatingand stabilizing circuit (4 b-2), which limits fluctuations in theenergy. “Clean” energy is supplied to both charging circuit (4 b-3) andcapacity switching device (4 b-4). The charging circuit fills storagecapacity device (4 b-5) when excess energy is present from theregulating circuit (4 b-2). The capacity switching device (4 b-4)determines if there is sufficient power coming from the regulatingcircuit (4 b-2) to meet the output requirements. If not, it augments theoutput by using energy from the storage device (4 b-5) to maintain itsset-point. Conditioned energy (4 b-6) at X volts and Y amps is providedat an output from capacity and regulating device (4 b).

The manufacture and design of this combination of devices is well knownto those skilled in the art. Once again, voltages, stabilizing rates,capacity requirements, etc., can all vary as long as they are sized toassure that the goal of providing conditioned energy at the requiredvoltage, current, and tolerances is achieved.

FIG. 13 depicts wireless sensing device (4 c). The wireless sensingdevice includes a temperature-sensing element (4 c-1). Thetemperature-sensing element penetrates through the ductwork so that itcan measure the temperature of the air in the duct. The sensor alsocontains sensor electronics (4 c-2) for performing various functions(e.g., converting the native measured signal—temperature—into atransmittable signal (RF), scaling the signal, processing calculations,etc.), and antenna (4 c-3) for sending the transmittable signal to areceiving device.

The sensor electronics require X volts and Y amps of power to operate.The power is delivered to the sensor electronics over power-supply wires(4 c-4). The manufacture and design of this device is well known tothose skilled in the art. The materials and temperature/electricalcharacteristics utilized to create this device can all vary as long asthe end result of a sensed temperature being transmitted isaccomplished.

In some embodiments, sensing element (4 c-1) does not penetrate theduct, but is rather located in the vented air stream. This reducesinstallation requirements.

Comparison of the Operation of the First Illustrative Embodiment of theInvention with the Prior Art EXAMPLE 1 Sensing Device

This example compares the operation of a wireless temperature sensorlocated in an air duct, as implemented in the prior art, with theoperation of a wireless temperature sensor in accordance with theillustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 a depicts a typical temperature sensor application in the priorart. It is assumed that 3000 Watts of energy is input into fan assembly(1). A portion of this energy is transferred to the air (2) in theduct—it increases the kinetic and potential energy of the air byincreasing its pressure and velocity. This causes the air in the duct tomove toward the discharge (5). In our example, 3000 watts is just enoughpower to make 10,000 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) of air move from theintake (6) to the discharge (5).

The conventional sensor assembly (4) has a temperature element (4 c-1)which protrudes into the air stream and measures the temperature of theair in its native measuring characteristic. It is assumed thattemperature element (4 c-1) is a thermistor and its nativecharacteristic is a slightly varying resistance that is proportional tothe temperature sensed.

Sensor electronics (4 c-2) converts the resistance signal into a moretransmittable, digitized, RF signal. It is assumed that the sensorelectronics use 1 Watt of electricity at X volts and Y amps, which issupplied from internal battery (4 a). The resultant RF signal istransmitted to a remote receiver through antenna (4 c-3).

This sensor application is costly to maintain because the battery willneed to be changed often. Increasing the size of the battery canincrease the length of time between servicing, but it will alsodisadvantageously increase the sensor cost, size, and weight.

FIG. 14 b depicts a chart of the kinetic and potential energy in the airfor the application shown in FIG. 14 a. Assume that the air is atreference zero energy at intake of the fan. It can be seen that energyis added to the air as it travels through the fan, low at the intake ofthe fan (1 a), and high at the discharge of the fan (1 b). Then, as theair moves along the duct, the level drops until it reaches its originallevel (reference zero) at the discharge of the duct (5).

FIGS. 15 a and 15 b shows a similar sensor application in accordancewith the illustrative embodiment of the present invention. In thisexample, 3002 Watts of electricity is input into Fan Assembly (1), whichmoves air through the duct. This is slightly more power (i.e., 2 watts)than is required to move the 10,000 CFM of air from the intake (6) tothe discharge (5).

The siphoning sensor assembly (4) has a temperature element (4 c-1) thatprotrudes into the air stream and measures the temperature of the air inits native measuring characteristic, resistance. Sensor electronics (4c-2) convert the resistance signal into a more transmittable, digitized,RF signal, which is transmitted to a remote receiver through antenna (4c-3). An embodiment of wireless sensor (4 c) is shown in detail in FIG.13.

The sensor electronics use 1 Watt of electricity at X volts and Y amps.In this case, however, the electronics are powered from energyconversion device (4 a) and capacity/regulation device (4 b) rather thana battery.

The energy conversion device removes 2 watts of energy from the airstream and converts it into 1.5 watts of electrical energy. This 1.5watts is fed into the capacity and regulation device (4 b) which outputs1 watt at X volts and Y amps to power the sensor electronics. Smallamounts of energy are lost in the conversion and regulation process.

FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of energy conversion device (4 a). Thepickup tube (4 a-1) removes some high pressure air (4 a-2) from the ductand directs it through nozzle (4 a-3) to expand and impinge upon turbinefan (4 a-4) before being vented as low pressure air (4 a-5) and leavingthe device as waste air. This causes the turbine fan (4 a-4) to spin,driving generating device (4 a-6) through a shafted connection. Thegenerating device (4 a-6) supplies 1.5 watts of power (example) on powersupply wires (4 a-7). This power is in an unconditioned form, from A toB volts and C to D amps for this example.

This unconditioned power travels through the capacity and regulationdevice and emerges as 1 watt (example) of conditioned power at X voltsand Y amps, ready to power the sensor electronics. The details of anembodiment of capacity and regulation device (4 b) are shown in FIG. 12.

It will be understood that energy conversion device (4 a) depicted inFIG. 11 is but one example of an energy conversion device. Many othersimplementations of an energy conversion device, some of which aredescribed the alternative embodiments section of this specification, arewithin the anticipated scope of this invention. It will be appreciatedthat all wattage figures are provided for pedagogical reasons only, andthat actual system and sensor requirements will vary, as will theefficiencies of the energy conversion device and the capacity andregulation device.

FIG. 15 b shows a representation chart of the energy in the air. Asbefore, energy is added to the air as it travels through the fan frompoint 1 a to point 1 b. This is a direct result of the 3002 watts added.Then, as the air moves along the duct, the level drops due to losses inthe duct. When the air reaches the sensor (4 a), a small portion ofenergy is removed to power the energy conversion device, 2 watts in ourexample. This is reflected in the energy drop at point 4 a on the graph.As the air continues toward the discharge (5), its energy levelcontinues to decline until it reaches its original level at thedischarge of the duct.

The additional 2 watts of energy added to the air at the fan (1) wereremoved by the sensor (4), making the air the distribution network forthe power supply to the sensor. Since the additional 2 watts wereremoved before the air left the duct at the discharge, the same 10,000CFM of air will be delivered to the discharge.

Additional energy was added to the medium (air) to overcome the drawpresented by the sensor. In practice, this might not be required if thepower requirements of the remote device are very small compared to thetotal energy contained in the medium or if variations in the energy ofthe media are not critical.

Furthermore, many mediums and/or systems already contain a significantamount of energy. This energy is either contained within the chemicalcomposition of the medium or present because of some unique physicalattribute of the system/material. For instance, some water distributionsystems rely on gravity to move the water. Gravity has created apotential energy within the system that can be used as a power source.

The first illustrative embodiment describes the use of this process to:

-   -   a. Input additional energy into an air system in one location        using a fan.    -   b. Transport that energy to a location near a wireless sensor in        the form of static pressure in the air.    -   c. Remove that energy and convert it to electricity using a        particular energy conversion device.    -   d. Regulate the flow of the electricity.    -   e. Deliver the electricity to the wireless sensor.

It is to be understood that in some embodiments, it will not benecessary to input additional energy, or to convert it from a first formto a second form, or to regulate its flow, or any combinations thereof.

Additional Illustrative Embodiments in Accordance with the PresentInvention

It will be understood that there are numerous other embodiments of thepresent invention, since the process of inputting energy into a mediumin one location, transporting it, and withdrawing it at another locationcan be applied to many different types of systems. The variations ordifferences between the embodiments primarily arise in:

-   -   The method of inputting the energy into the medium.    -   The medium being used to transport the energy.    -   The method and energy conversion device being used to extract        and convert the energy.    -   The method of conditioning the energy such that it is ready for        steady supply to the device.    -   The type of device being powered, such as a sensing device,        controlling device, alarming device, etc.

Regardless of implementation details, in each embodiment in accordancewith the present method:

-   -   energy is transmitted through the medium; and    -   energy is removed from the system and delivered to a device that        is performing an action associated with the medium (e.g.,        sensing, controlling, alarming, etc.) This advantageously occurs        at a location that is very near to the device.

In some embodiments in accordance with the present method, the followingadditional operations or tasks are conducted:

-   -   energy is input into a system (typically remote from the device        that it's intended for);    -   energy is converted into a form of energy that is usable by the        device; and    -   energy is regulated in some fashion to provide a steady supply        of power to the device.

Alternative Types of Energy Added to the Medium

In the first illustrative embodiment, a pump was used to add energy tothe system by increasing the static pressure of the air in the system.But many other types of energy can be added to the medium including,without limitation:

Kinetic Energy Potential Energy Mass Energy Heat Energy Wave EnergyNuclear Energy Photo-electric Energy Magnetic energy Temperature SoundPower Gravitational energy Centrifugal energy Velocity Chemical energy

The type of energy that is selected for input must be compatible withthe medium and the method of energy removal. For example, when addingmagnetic energy, the medium must be one that will conduct and transportmagnetic energy. Additionally, an energy removal system suitable forremoving magnetic energy must be used. There are various methods foradding energy to a system and they are well known to those skilled inthe art.

Alternative Mediums for Transporting the Energy

Many alternative mediums can be used to transport energy. To the extentthat a medium other than air (as in the first illustrative embodiment)is used, the method of input of energy and the method of removing energymight need to be suitably adjusted.

For example, when using a light wave to transmit energy to the sensor,energy can be added by increasing the power to one band using a laser.The added energy can be filtered out at the siphoning point using, forexample, filters and a photocell.

The following are a few non-limiting examples of other mediums that aresuitable for transporting energy: gas, liquid, solid, multiphase(liquid/gas; solid/liquid; solid/gas; etc.) and an energy wave (e.g.,sound, electromagnetic waves, etc.)

Alternative Methods for Energy Removal

There are various well-known methods and means for removing energy froma medium. Any such method or means can be suitably used in conjunctionwith the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. The processor means for energy removal must be compatible with the medium and themethod of energy input.

A few, non-limiting examples of ways in which energy can be extractedfrom the medium and converted to a useful form are provided below.

-   -   Pressure Bleed Generation        -   In this case, a small portion of the medium is “bled off”            from the source. As it bleeds, it moves from a point of high            energy (either kinetic or static) to a position of lower            energy, and energy is liberated. This is converted to the            energy form required by the sensor, controller or alarm. One            example was demonstrated in the first illustrative            embodiment (FIG. 11) and another example is shown in FIG.            16.        -   FIG. 16 is an example in which the medium cannot be bled            directly to the atmosphere for any reason. In this case, the            medium is bled to a position of lower energy within the            system itself. The process and operation is the same as that            in the first illustrative embodiment, except that the medium            is returned to the system.        -   In FIG. 16, the medium is at a high pressure (2) in pipe or            duct (1). A High pressure Pickup tube (5) allows some of the            medium to flow through a nozzle (6) where it expands and            impinges on the blades of a turbine fan (7). The medium then            travels through the Low Pressure Relief Tube (9) back into            the system at a point of lower pressure (4). This flow            causes the turbine fan (7) to rotate and the generating            device and shaft (8) to spin creating an electrical power            source on supply wires (11). The design of the nozzle,            tubes, fan, and generating device are all specific to the            medium and power required and are all well known to those            skilled in the art.        -   In some variations, the fan and generating device that are            shown in the example could be in the stream of the fluid.            FIG. 17 depicts an alternative embodiment of a fan assembly,            including fan (3) and generating device (6).    -   Inline Generation        -   In some embodiments, the bleed-type component for energy            removal is replaced by an inline generation device. When            using such a device, none of the medium leaves the system.            In this case, a generating device is inserted into the flow            stream of the medium and converts the medium's kinetic            energy into an energy form required by the sensor,            controller, or alarm. This is the same as in the first            illustrative embodiment, except that the medium is not            vented. Four examples are shown in FIGS. 17, 18, 19, and 20.        -   In FIG. 17, a system duct or pipe (1) contains a medium (2)            which is moving in the direction of flow (8). The flow of            the liquid impinging upon the fan (3) causes it to rotate            the shaft (4) and the generating device (6) causing it to            generate electrical power at the power supply wires (7).        -   In FIG. 18, the medium (2) is flowing in one direction (3)            inside pipe or duct (1). A pickup tube (4) penetrates the            pipe or duct (1) and is faced into the direction of flow so            it is exposed to the total pressure of the medium, equal to            both the Velocity Pressure and the Static pressure (Vp+Sp)            (5). A relief tube (12) penetrates at a right angle to the            direction of flow, causing it to only be exposed to the            static pressure. Additionally, the relief tube protrudes            slightly, causing flow to travel around it and cause a            slight venturi effect. The resultant pressure on the end of            the relief tube is Sp-X (6) [Static pressure minus “X”            caused by the venturi action]. Since the pressure at the            pickup tube is greater than that at the relief tube, Medium            Flow (13) is induced in the pickup tube. This flow causes            fan (7) to rotate shaft (8) and the generating device (10),            generating electrical power on power supply wires (11).        -   FIG. 19 is exactly the same as FIG. 18, however an orifice            plate (14) has been placed into the pipe or duct (1) to            cause a greater pressure drop (15) between points “a” and            “b”. This orifice can be a new device, can be a component            already in the system which creates a pressure drop, such as            a valve, or the generating device, accessories, and            pickup/relief tubes can be built into the device with the            orifice.        -   In all of these examples, the fan, shaft, and generating            device are held directly in the medium stream by a bracket.            A similar effect can be obtained by using the arrangement            shown in FIG. 16 or wherein equipment protrudes partly into            the pipe or duct, as shown in FIG. 20.        -   In FIG. 20, as the medium (2) flows in one direction (3), it            turns the fan (4), shaft (5) and generating device (6) which            creates electrical power at the power supply wires (7).        -   The design and manufacture of fans, linkages, orifice            plates, mounting brackets, and devices which convert a            rotating motion into electrical energy are all well known to            those skilled in the art.    -   Temperature Difference Generation        -   In this case, the temperature difference between the medium            and the surrounding area can be used to extract power. All            other aspects of the process are similar to the first            illustrative embodiment, except that the additional energy            is input into the system in the form of heat (at a            convenient location), moved to the point of extraction, then            that heat is siphoned off. Some examples are shown in FIG.            21 and FIG. 22.        -   In FIG. 21, a heat-pipe generating device (heat pipe fitted            with a generating device) is used to remove energy from the            system. A detailed view of the heat pipe generator is shown            inserted into a pipe or duct for illustrative purposes. Pipe            or duct (1) contains a warm fluid (2) traveling through it,            passing over one portion of the heat pipe generator assembly            (4). The other side of the heat pipe generator is located            outside of the pipe in cooler air (3). The penetration of            the pipe or duct is well known to those skilled in the art.        -   The heat pipe generator consists of two chambers [high            pressure area (12) and low pressure area (13)] surrounded by            a wicking material (6) saturated with refrigerant. The two            chambers are separated by a venturi tube (8) which has a            generating device (9) placed in the venturi. Evaporator fins            (5) and condenser fins (16) surround the high and            low-pressure areas respectively. The refrigerant is chosen            such that it will evaporate at the temperature expected to            be encountered in the pipe or duct (1) and then condense in            the expected ambient condition (3). All materials must be            designed to accommodate the pressures and temperatures both            inside the heat pipe and outside.        -   As the warm fluid travels over the evaporator fins (5) on            the heat pipe generator, heat is absorbed (11) and the            refrigerant in the wicking material (6) begins to evaporate            or boil (7). This increases the pressure in the High            Pressure Area (12), causing the refrigerant to flow through            the venturi tube (8) and across the generating device (9)            into the low-pressure area (13). This flow causes the            generating device to send power out of electric lines (15).        -   Once in the low-pressure area (13), the refrigerant loses            heat (14) through the condenser fins (16) and condenses back            into the wicking material (10). Once in the wicking            material, it is drawn back into the evaporator section            through a wicking action (17) to repeat the process.        -   The design and manufacture of a heat tube (or similar device            such as a thermosyphon) is well known by those skilled in            the art. Of course, the typical use for such devices is to            remove heat. In this application, the device, along with            some modifications such as the addition of a generating            device and venturi tube, is used to convert this movement of            heat into an electric power source.        -   It should be noted that the fan and generating device are            shown in the example in the stream of the fluid. In some            other embodiments, a turbine type fan and nozzle as shown in            FIG. 16 are used. The design and manufacture of fans,            generating devices, mounting brackets, etc. are all well            known to those skilled in the art.        -   In FIG. 22, the thermocouple effect of multiple junctions at            different reference temperatures can be used to extract the            energy from the system. A medium (2) at a different            temperature (either higher or lower) than the surroundings            is flowing in a pipe or duct (1). There is a temperature            difference (6) between junction “A” (4) and Junction “B” (5)            which generates a voltage which can be transmitted over            power wires (7).        -   The design and manufacture of a thermocouple junction (or            similar device) is well known by those skilled in the art.            Many junctions in series or parallel can be combined to            create greater amounts of current or voltage.    -   Pressure Changing Generation        -   In this case, regular or irregular changes in pressure in a            system are harnessed and converted to power. All other            aspects of the process are similar to the first illustrative            embodiment. A few examples are shown in FIG. 23 and FIG. 25,            but there are many others.        -   In FIG. 23, medium (1) has a pressure which varies between X            and Y psi at point (A). When it is at “X”, this pressure is            great enough to overcome the pressure of spring (9) on            piston or diaphragm (8) and causes the piston to rise in the            container (16). Rack (10) is driven up because it is            attached to the piston and spins ratcheting pinion (11)            which is connected to the generating device (12) via            transmission gears (15), causing the generating device (12)            and flywheel (13) to spin and electricity to be generated on            power supply wires (14). When the generating device begins            spinning counter clockwise, the flywheel will keep it going            even when the rack and ratcheting pinion stop or change            direction.        -   Note that the ratcheting pinion (11) serves two purposes: to            drive the attached shaft clockwise and enable the shaft to            continue spinning in the clockwise direction once the pinion            stops or reverses direction.        -   Referring now to FIG. 24, rack (1) moves vertically            according to rack motion (6) causing pinion gear (2) to            rotate, alternating between clockwise and counterclockwise            (7). When the pinion gear is rotating clockwise, springs (5)            push movable stops (4) into position to engage the teeth of            shaft gear (3), transmitting the rotation. When the pinion            gear rotates counterclockwise, the movable stops are allowed            to leave contact with the shaft gear due to deflection of            the springs.        -   Referring back to FIG. 23, when the pressure at point (A)            drops to Y psi which is not great enough to overcome the            force of spring (9), the piston drops. The rack moves            downward and the ratcheting pinion rotates counter            clockwise, having no effect on the generating device.        -   When the pressure at point (A) rises back up to X psi, the            cycle repeats.        -   In this example, the power output of the energy conversion            device is usually not constant, so a capacity and regulation            device is needed. In some other applications, there is            constant power output, thereby eliminating the need for the            capacity and regulation device. In a further alternative            embodiment, power from both the up and down strokes of the            rack is translated into energy, either through multiple            generation devices or geared transmission assemblies.        -   The sizing, design, and mounting of pistons, springs, gears,            shafts, flywheels, etc., noted in this specification is            dependent upon the particular sensor, controller, or alarm            being used, and is within the capabilities of those skilled            in the art.        -   FIG. 25 shows a variation on this energy conversion device.            Here, medium (2), which experiences regular pressure            changes, is in pipe or duct (1). Two tubes, one for intake            and one for exhaust, connect the pipe or duct (1) to a            storage vessel (11) with a diaphragm (12 & 13). The material            and design of the tubes must be able to withstand the            maximum pressures that the medium will experience. Mounted            within each tube is a generating device with a shaft and fan            (7 & 8). Also fitted in each tube is a check valve (5 & 6).            Check valve (5) allows flow only from the pipe or duct (1)            to the storage vessel (11). Check valve (6) only allows flow            from the storage vessel (11) to the pipe or duct (1).        -   To illustrate the operation, it is assumed that the pressure            varies between 10 psi (low) and 60 psi (high) in the pipe or            duct (1). When the pressure is at 10 psi, the diaphragm is            relaxed (13). When the pressure of the medium (2) rises to            60 psi, some of the medium flows through intake tube (3) and            into the storage vessel (11) causing the diaphragm to expand            to an extended position (12). It does not flow through the            exhaust tube because the check valve (6) does not let it            flow in that direction. As the medium flows past the            generating device with fan and shaft (7), it spins and            generates electrical power on power supply wires (9). This            continues until the storage vessel (11) is full of medium.        -   When the pressure of the medium returns to 10 psi (low), the            extended diaphragm (12) forces the medium back to the pipe            or duct (1) via the exhaust tube since check valve (5) will            not allow it to travel in that direction in intake tube (3).            As the medium flows past the generating device with fan and            shaft (8), it spins and generates electrical power on power            supply wires (10). This continues until the storage vessel            (11) is empty of medium. Subsequent changes in pressure will            repeat the cycle.        -   It should be noted that many alternatives exist in the            placement of the generating devices. The same effect can be            accomplished by having only one generating device connected            to two fans with a linkage, one located in each of the            tubes. Additionally, the device could be made with one tube            that accomplishes both intake and exhaust, provided that the            generating fans were properly ratcheted to prevent it from            spinning in opposite directions. Fans on the generating            devices can also be turbine-impingement fans as shown in            FIG. 16, Turbine fan (7).        -   The design and manufacture of storage vessels, diaphragms,            check valves, piping, fans, linkages, and devices which            convert a rotational motion into electrical energy are all            well known to those skilled in the art.    -   Optical Bleed Generation        -   In this case, a small amount of light is bled off from a            fiber optic source and is directed toward a photovoltaic            type device which generates electricity. All other aspects            of the process are similar to the first illustrative            embodiment, except that:            -   a) The additional energy is input into the system in the                form of light energy.            -   b) The medium is light rather than a fluid or gas.            -   c) The light energy is removed using a filter and                focusing device.            -   d) The energy conversion device converts the light                energy to the power required by the sensor, controller,                or alarm.        -   An example is shown in FIG. 26. The medium (6), light in            this example, is traveling in a fiber optic cable (1). At a            convenient point for energy insertion, a unique frequency            (7) is introduced into the fiber optic cable (1) through the            use of a fiber splice (2). The unique frequency travels            along with the medium (6) until the point of removal, where            it is removed via a fiber splice (3). A filter/focusing            device (5) assures only this frequency is removed. The            unique frequency is focused upon a tuned photovoltaic cell            (4) which generates electrical energy on power supply wires            (8).        -   Alternatively, the energy removal can simply remove all            frequencies at the point of removal, and a general            degradation of the medium would be observed. In this case,            power input would not be in the form of adding a unique            frequency wave form (7), but rather to amplify the entire            medium signal at some location where inputting energy is            convenient.        -   The design and manufacture of fiber optic cable, splicing            devices, focusing and filtering devices, and devices which            convert a light source into electrical energy are all well            known to those skilled in the art.    -   Level Changing Generation        -   In this case, the changing level in a tank causes a float to            rise and fall over time. The vertical motions are changed to            rotation through a series of levers and gears, which in turn            power a generating device. All other aspects of the process            are similar to the first illustrative embodiment. An example            is shown in FIG. 27.        -   Medium (1) begins at level “A” (9) in storage tank (2). As            the medium level increases to level “B” (8), the float and            lever (3) rise which in turn, rotates float gear (4). Float            gear (4) spins ratchet gear (5) which rotates the generating            device and shaft (6) causing power to be generated on power            supply wires (7). Ratchet gear (5) is designed to only            transmit rotation to the generating device shaft in one            direction, and is similar to that shown in FIG. 24.        -   The drawings shown are schematic in nature. Additionally, a            shuttle type generation device could also be utilized here.            The design and manufacture of floats, linkages, ratcheting            gears, and devices which convert a linear or rotating motion            into electrical energy are all well known to those skilled            in the art.    -   Chemical Bleed Generation        -   In this case, a small amount of the medium is bled off and            it is chemically converted to an energy supply. This is            ideal for mediums which have a high energy content such as            natural gas, propane, radioactive materials, etc. All other            aspects of the process are similar to the first illustrative            embodiment, except that:            -   a) The additional energy is input into the system in the                form of additional chemical.            -   b) The chemical energy is siphoned off by removing some                of the chemical.            -   c) The energy conversion device consumes some of the                chemical to create the power required by the sensor,                controller, or alarming device.        -   One example, shown in FIG. 28, is where a small amount of            natural gas is bled off from a natural gas pipeline and then            fed into a fuel cell that converts this to electricity and            waste products. The medium (2), natural gas in this example,            is removed through intake tube (3) and delivered to fuel            cell (4). In a well-known chemical conversion, the medium is            converted to electricity and waste products. The waste            products exit the fuel cell via vent tube (5) and the            electricity is made available at the power supply wires (6).        -   The design and manufacture of fuel cells, pipe penetrations,            and the associated mediums they can be used with to create            electrical energy are all well known to those skilled in the            art.    -   Non-Bleeding Chemical Reactive Generation        -   This example is when the medium itself can be utilized to            react slightly with another material to create a change in            energy state. All other aspects of the process are similar            to the first illustrative embodiment, except that:            -   a) The additional energy is input into the system in the                form of chemical energy.            -   b) The chemical energy is siphoned off using a reaction.            -   d) The energy conversion device converts some medium to                another form while generating the electrical energy.        -   An example is shown in FIG. 29 and FIG. 30. In FIG. 29, a            medium (2) is flowing in a pipe or duct (1). An Anode (4) is            in contact with the medium (2). The anode material is chosen            such that oxidation will occur when it is exposed to the            medium (2). A cathode (5) is located in contact with another            medium, the chemical reactor medium (3). The cathode            material is chosen such that reduction will occur when in            contact with the chemical reactor medium (3).        -   The combination of the oxidation on the anode and reduction            on the cathode frees electrons and creates an electromotive            force creating an electrical power supply through the load            (6). This embodiment utilizes some of the chemical energy in            the medium to create the electrical energy. This chemical            energy would have to be input into the system in another            location to assure that the medium (2) remains useful for            its primary purpose, with minimal degradation from the            oxidation at the anode.        -   FIG. 30 shows a similar embodiment. In this case, the medium            (3) is flowing in a pipe or duct (1) in one area of the            system and medium (4) is flowing in pipe or duct (2). An            example might be supply and return cooling water lines. At a            convenient point in the supply pipe, granular anodes (5) are            placed into the solution. At a convenient point in the            return pipe, granular cathodes (7) are inserted.        -   The medium (3) in the supply pipe (1) oxidizes the granular            anodes (5) and electrons (6) are released. They travel into            the receptor (9) and through the load to the transmitter            (10). The electrons are then absorbed by the reduction            process happening in the granular cathodes (7). This causes            current flow in the load. The energy for the system is            inputted in one location in the form of the granular anodes            and cathodes, then removed in the form of electrical energy            at the point of both the transmitter and receptor.        -   The design and manufacture of granular anodes and cathodes,            solid anodes and cathodes, and the oxidation-reduction            process which convert a chemical reaction into electrical            energy are all well known to those skilled in the art.    -   Inline Wave Generation        -   In this case, the inconsistencies in the flow of a medium is            converted to a linear motion which is then converted to the            energy form required by the sensor, controller or alarm. All            other aspects of the process are similar to the first            illustrative embodiment. An example is shown in FIG. 31.        -   A medium (2) is flowing (3) in a pipe or duct (1). A paddle            inserted perpendicularly to the direction of flow is pushed            away from the vertical angle due to the flow and rotates            around pivot (5). A spring (6) causes the paddle to stop            moving when equilibrium is reached. Upon a decrease in flow            rate, the spring will exert more force than the paddle and            the paddle will rotate clockwise until equilibrium is once            again reached. When flow increases, the paddle will move            counterclockwise until equilibrium is reached with the            spring. In a medium which has inconsistencies in its flow            rate, the paddle will oscillate regularly.        -   The end of the paddle (4) outside the flow stream is            connected to a generating device and linkage (7) which            converts to movement of the paddle into electrical energy            supplied on power supply lines (8).        -   The design and manufacture of paddles, linkages, and devices            which convert a linear motion into electrical energy are all            well known to those skilled in the art.    -   Cavitation Induced Generation        -   In this case, cavitation (either purposefully created or a            normal byproduct of the medium) in the vessel containing the            medium creates changes in the pressure which can be used to            generate small amounts of power. This is a variation on the            pressure differential generation noted earlier. All other            aspects of the process are similar to the first illustrative            embodiment.        -   An example is shown in FIG. 32 a/b. Two areas which contain            medium [area (1) and area (2)] are connected by a cylinder            (8). The pressure in area 1 and 2 varies. In this example,            the pressure varies according to the Pressure-time graph in            FIG. 32 b, such that at t₁, the pressure in area 2 is            greater than area 1 and at t₂, the pressure in area 1 is            greater than that of area 2.        -   At t₁, the difference in pressure between area (1) and area            (2) causes the shuttle to move towards area (1) in the            cylinder. It does not enter area (1) because of shuttle            stops (5). As time progresses to t₂, area (1) has a greater            pressure than area (2), forcing the shuttle back towards            area (2). Once again, the shuttle doesn't enter area (2)            because of shuttle stops (6). The continuous variations in            pressure difference between the two areas cause the shuttle            to move back and forth between shuttle stops (5) and shuttle            stops (6). As the shuttle passes through the cylinder, it            induces a current in power supply wires (7).        -   An example is shown in FIG. 32 c. A set of pipes (4)            generate cavitation that changes the pressure across the            pipes. The medium (3) flows in the pipe (4) until it reaches            the vortex shedder (5). The shedder is designed to create            vortex patterns in the fluid. The presence of vortex            shedding, together with vortex wakes, gives rise to            increased unsteadiness, and pressure fluctuation between            area (1) and (2). The design of vortex shedders is well            known to those skilled in the art.        -   The pressure fluctuations force a magnetic shuttle back and            forth to create a power supply from the shuttle generating            assembly (8). Shuttle generating assemblies and vortex            generators are well known to those skilled in the art.        -   A similar alternative would have one of the areas at a fixed            pressure and only shed vortexes into the other area as shown            in FIG. 32 d.    -   Gaussian or Static Generation        -   Energy is harvested from the skin of the vessel that is            transporting the medium. All other aspects of the process            are similar to the first illustrative embodiment. An example            is shown in FIG. 33. A medium (2) is flowing in a pipe or            duct (1). As static is generated on the shell of the pipe or            duct (4), it is harvested on the power supply wires (5).    -   Sound/Wave Powered Generation        -   In this case, energy is generated from the motion created by            the sound/wave of the medium being monitored. These waves            can be audible or inaudible and either a byproduct of the            medium or the actual medium (ie: the measurement of sound            intensity). All other aspects of the process are similar to            the first illustrative embodiment, except that:            -   a) The additional energy is input into the medium in the                form of wave energy.            -   b) The medium is not confined in a pipe or duct and does                not flow.            -   c) The energy conversion device converts the wave energy                to the power required by the sensor, controller, or                alarm.        -   In the example in FIG. 34, medium (1) is being measured by a            temperature sensor (7) mounted on wall (8). It is assumed            that the wall (8) is the wall of a large open office space            in which we desire to measure the temperature of the air            [the medium (1)].        -   A transmitting device (2) is located on wall (9) such that            the waves being broadcast through the medium can be received            at the receiving cone (4). The cone focus' the waves upon            the diaphragm (3) which oscillates the shuttle generating            assembly (5) through the linkage. Power is subsequently            generated on power supply wires (6) and passed to the            sensor. Many sensors can be powered from the same            transmitting source, or multiple transmitting sources.        -   In effect, we are adding a form of energy to the medium            being measured (the air) and removing it where we need it            (the sensor) without using an additional distribution            system. As in the first illustrative embodiment, there is an            energy cost associated with this; however, it is outweighed            by the reduction in first cost and ongoing maintenance            costs.    -   Gravitational or Centrifugal Generation        -   Generating energy from changes or inconsistencies in the            centrifugal speed or various gravitational fields of the            medium being measured. All other aspects of the process are            similar to the first illustrative embodiment, except that:            -   a) The additional energy is input into the system in the                form of rotational speed.            -   b) The medium is a solid rather than a fluid or gas.            -   c) The rotational energy is siphoned off using a shuttle                generating device.        -   For example, FIG. 35 shows a platter (2) rotating (3) on a            shaft (1). A shuttle housing (5) is mounted on the platter            (2) and houses a magnetic shuttle (4) being acted upon            radially inward by a spring (7). As the RPM of the platter            increases, the shuttle (4) will be forced against the spring            and move radially outward until the centrifugal forces are            equal to the spring forces. Decreases in RPM change the            centrifugal forces on the shuttle, causing it to move            radially inward toward the center of the platter (2).            Increases in the RPM cause the shuttle to move radially            outward. Inconsistencies in the speed of the platter will            cause the shuttle (4) to oscillate. This oscillation through            the wire coil (6) generates power at the power supply wires            (8).        -   There are many other methods for extracting energy, which            are well known to those skilled in the art, that can            suitably be used in conjunction with the illustrative            embodiments of the present invention.

Alternative Methods of Conditioning the Energy

Fluctuations in the power transmission rate can be smoothed out withvarious types of capacity storage and regulating device, if required.See FIG. 12. An alternative is to provide a conversion method that isstable enough so as not to require any conditioning.

A brief, non-limiting listing of typical methods for smoothingfluctuations includes:

-   -   a. Using a capacitive device to store and discharge.    -   b. Using a restrictive device to limit flow.    -   c. Using a bypass type device to divert excess capacity to        another location.    -   d. Using an inductive governor to limit changes.    -   e. Using a flywheel device (mechanical, electrical, thermal,        etc.) to steady fluctuations.

The conditioning method is greatly dependent upon the energy type beingsupplied to the sensor, controller, or alarm device. The various methodspossible to condition the energy are well known to those skilled in theart.

Devices that can be Powered by the Energy

The first illustrative embodiment was directed to the powering of awireless sensor. Many other devices can be powered in accordance withthe present teachings. Examples include, without limitation, controllers(e.g., dampers, actuators, valves, etc.) and alarms (e.g., high-limitsignals, bells, buzzers, etc.).

The application of the present invention to these other devices is thesame as for the first illustrative embodiment: energy is added to amedium at one location, the energy is then extracted, converted (asrequired), and conditioned (as required), and is then delivered to thedevice.

Additional Alternative Examples

Since there are so many potential combinations of energy for input,medium for transferring the energy, methods for extracting the energy,and devices that can be powered by the energy, a few additional examplesare provided below.

EXAMPLE 2 Controller

This example compares the operation of an automatic flushing device on aurinal, as implemented in the prior art, with the operation of anautomatic flushing device in accordance with the illustrative embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 36 depicts a conventional application of an automatic flush valvecontrolling the water flow to a urinal. A water supply (1) is connectedto a flush valve (2) and a urinal (3) via plumbing pipe. Whenever theflush valve opens, water will flow to the urinal.

A motion detector (4) mounted above the urinal is powered by a battery(5). It senses a person approaching and leaving the urinal. When theperson leaves the urinal, the motion detector provides power from thebattery to the flush valve for a predetermined time. Consequently, thevalve opens and the urinal “flushes”.

The battery is powering both the motion detector and the flush valve, soit must be either very large or changed often. An alternative in theprior art to using a battery to power these devices is to provide 120VAC to the motion detector as shown in FIG. 37. This eliminates thehigher maintenance requirements and size issues of the battery, butincreases first cost substantially.

FIG. 38 depicts an apparatus for automatic flushing in accordance withthe illustrative embodiment of the present invention. As before, a watersupply (1) is connected to a flush valve (2) and a urinal (3) viaplumbing pipe and a motion detector (4) operates the valve. Thedifference is in the power supply for the motion detector and the valve.

Energy conversion device (6) removes some of the energy in the watersupply system and converts it to electricity. The electricity flows intothe motion sensor via capacity and regulation device (5), which designedto both store and smooth fluctuations in the output of energy conversiondevice (6).

FIG. 23 shows an example of an energy conversion device for thisapplication. As described earlier, a variety of methods for removingenergy from the medium can suitably be used. In this example, the energyconversion device converts potential energy fluctuations in the water(in the form of pressure) to electricity.

In FIG. 23, the water supply is the medium (1) and it creates a pressureof 60 psi at point (A) when the flush valve is closed. This pressure isgreat enough to overcome the pressure of spring (9) on piston (8) andcauses the piston to rise. Rack (10) is driven up because it is attachedto the piston and spins ratcheting pinion (11), which is connected tothe generating device (12) via transmission gears (15), causing thegenerating device (12) and flywheel (13) to spin and electricity to begenerated on power supply wires (14). When the generating device beginsspinning counter clockwise, the flywheel will keep it going even whenthe rack and ratcheting pinion stop or change direction.

Note that the ratcheting pinion (11) will serve two purposes: to drivethe attached shaft clockwise and enable the shaft to continue spinningin the clockwise direction once the pinion stops or reverses direction.

Referring now to FIG. 24, rack (1) moves vertically according to rackmotion (6) causing pinion gear (2) to rotate, alternating betweenclockwise and counterclockwise (7). When the pinion gear is rotatingclockwise, springs (5) push movable stops (4) into position to engagethe teeth of shaft gear (3), transmitting the rotation. When the piniongear rotates counterclockwise, the movable stops are allowed to leavecontact with the shaft gear due to deflection of the springs.

Referring back to FIG. 23, when the flush valve is opened, the pressureat point (A) drops to 10 psi which is not great enough to overcome theforce of spring (9), so the piston drops. The rack moves downward andthe ratcheting pinion rotates counter clockwise, having no effect on thegenerating device.

After a few seconds of open, the flush valve will close again, bringingthe pressure at point (A) back up to 60 psi and starting the cycle overagain.

This provides yet another example of how the present teachings areapplied to create a new device (a pressure-changing generation device)and a new process to replace the power distribution system normallyrequired for the flush valve and motion detector. Additional energy isadded to the water at the pumping system, then extracted locally at theflush valve.

In this example, the power output of the energy conversion device is notconstant, so, referring back to FIG. 38, a capacity and regulatingdevice (5) is needed. This device operates as described in the firstillustrative embodiment and as shown in FIG. 12.

The overall effect of applying the present invention to the automaticflush valve scenario is to:

-   -   Reduce first costs by eliminating power wiring to the device    -   Reduce ongoing maintenance costs by eliminating regular battery        change maintenance to the device.    -   Increase flexibility of the device to allow it to be moved when        needed without extensive re-wiring.

EXAMPLE 3 Combination Sensor and Alarm

This example pertains to the operation of a combination device thatrings an alarm when the fluid temperature in a vessel exceeds a setmaximum. This example compares the operation of the combination device,as implemented in the prior art, with the operation of a combinationdevice in accordance with the illustrative embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 39 depicts a conventional high-temperature alarm device. Fluid (1)is flowing in a pipe (2). Temperature-sensing element (3) penetrates thewall of the pipe to sense the temperature of the fluid. The element hasa set of normally open contacts (4) that close when the temperatureexceeds a set-point. For this example, that set-point is 180 degreesFahrenheit.

12 Volt DC power is supplied, in this example, from a power supplytransformer (5) which is located several hundred feet away from thesensing/alarming device. 110 VAC enters the power supply and isconverted to 12 VDC. This voltage is carried on wires (6) to alarm bell(7). One of the wires is broken by the normally open contacts (4) in thetemperature element (3), preventing a completed circuit.

When the temperature in the pipe exceeds 180 degrees F., the normallyopen contacts in the temperature element close, enabling current to flowto the alarm bell, which signals the high temperature condition.

The cost of the wires (6) is very great, especially if the distance islong or the voltage being transmitted falls into a category requiring amechanical raceway by the local codes. Additionally, initialinstallation is time-consuming, and there are energy losses in the wireas well as the power transformer. Further, there is additional time,cost, and complication if the sensor/alarming device ever needs to bemoved to another location, since the power supply wiring would also needto be extended.

FIG. 40 depicts a sensor/alarm in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment of the present invention. As before, fluid (1) is flowing ina pipe (2). A temperature-sensing element (3) is penetrates the wall ofthe pipe to sense the temperature of the fluid. The element has a set ofnormally open contacts (4) that close when the temperature exceeds aset-point. Again, the set-point is 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

In accordance with the present invention, power is supplied locallyrather than via long lengths of wires from a remote power supply. Inthis case, a “heat pipe generator” (5) is utilized in such a way that ittakes a portion of the thermal energy present in the pipe (2) andconverts it to electric power. In this example, this electric power iscarried over wires (6) to capacity and regulation device (9), whichsends the power to the alarm bell (7) via wires (8). The capacity andregulation device (9) might not be required, depending upon:

1. Generation capacity of the heat pipe generator.

2. Power requirement of the alarm bell.

3. Consistency in the heat transfer between inside the pipe and outsidethe pipe.

FIG. 21 depicts a detailed view of the heat pipe generator inserted intoa pipe. Pipe (1) contains a warm fluid (2) traveling through the pipe,passing over one portion of the heat pipe generator assembly (4). Theother side of the heat pipe generator is located outside of the pipe incooler air (3).

As the warm fluid travels over the evaporator fins (5) on the heat pipegenerator, heat is absorbed (11) and the refrigerant in the wickingmaterial (6) begins to evaporate or boil (7). This increases thepressure in the High Pressure Area (12), causing the refrigerant to flowthrough the venturi tube (8) and across the generating device (9) intothe low-pressure area (13). This flow causes the generating device tosend power out of electric power generating lines (15).

Once in the low-pressure area (13), the refrigerant loses heat (14)through the condenser fins (16) and condenses back into the wickingmaterial (10). Once in the wicking material, it is drawn back into theevaporator section via a wicking action (17) to repeat the process.

The manufacture of a heat tube (or similar device such as athermosyphon) is well known. But the typical use is to move heat. Inthis application, the device, along with some modifications such as theaddition of a generating device and venturi tube, is used to convert themovement of heat into a source of electric power.

As in Examples 1 and 2, a small amount of the energy in the medium beingsensed/alarmed is withdrawn and converted into a usable form, which inthis Example is electricity.

FIG. 41 shows a schematic representation of the process. Fluid (1)traveling in the pipe (2) contains energy, in this example in the formof 10,000 units of heat energy. Only 9,990 units of heat energy arerequired at the end of the pipe, however, an additional 10 units wereadded earlier in the system.

At the heat pipe generator or energy conversion device (3), ten units ofheat (4) are drawn off and the remaining 9,990 units (5) continue downthe pipe. These ten units of heat energy are converted to five units ofwaste heat energy (6) and five units of electrical energy (7). Thisenergy is conditioned in capacity and regulation device (8) to removeany fluctuations, where three units are lost. The remaining two units ofelectrical energy are then used to provide clean, stabile power to thesensing (9) and alarming (10) devices whenever the sensing devicemeasures the appropriate quantity (11).

Using the present invention in conjunction with the remote hightemperature alarm scenario results in:

-   -   reduced first costs by eliminating power wiring to the device;    -   reduced ongoing maintenance costs by eliminating regular battery        change maintenance to the device; and    -   increased flexibility of the device by enabling it to be moved        when needed without extensive re-wiring.

It is to be understood that the above-described embodiments are merelyillustrative of the invention and that many variations may be devised bythose skilled in the art without departing from the scope of theinvention and from the principles disclosed herein. It is thereforeintended that such variations be included within the scope of thefollowing claims and their equivalents.

1. A method comprising: adding energy to an actively-transported medium,wherein: the medium is not used to power a device; and the energy isadded at a first location; transporting the energy via the medium to asecond location; withdrawing the energy at the second location;delivering the energy to a device, wherein the device uses the energy toperform an action that is associated with the medium; and regulating arate at which said energy is delivered to said device.
 2. The method ofclaim 1 further comprising temporarily storing at least of portion ofthe energy that is intended for delivery to the device.
 3. A methodcomprising: adding energy to an actively-transported medium, wherein:the medium is not used to power a device; and the energy is added at afirst location; transporting the energy via the medium to a secondlocation; withdrawing the energy at the second location; delivering theenergy to a device, wherein the device uses the energy to perform anaction that is associated with the medium, wherein the action performedby the device is to sense a characteristic of the medium.
 4. A methodcomprising: adding energy to an actively-transported medium, wherein:the medium is not used to power a device; and the energy is added at afirst location; transporting the energy via the medium to a secondlocation; withdrawing the energy at the second location; delivering theenergy to a device, wherein the device uses the energy to perform anaction that is associated with the medium, wherein the action performedby the device is to provide an alarm indication responsive to a value ofa characteristic of the medium.
 5. A method comprising: adding energy toan actively-transported medium, wherein: the medium is not used to powera device; and the energy is added at a first location; transporting theenergy via the medium to a second location; withdrawing the energy atthe second location; and delivering the energy to a device, wherein thedevice uses the energy to perform an action that is associated with themedium, wherein: the operation of adding energy further comprises: (a)determining the amount of energy that is required by the device toperform the action; and (b) adding a sufficient amount of energy to themedium so that the required amount of energy is delivered to the device.6. A method comprising: adding energy to an actively-transported medium,wherein: the medium is not used to power a device; and the energy isadded at a first location; transporting the energy via the medium to asecond location; withdrawing the energy at the second location; anddelivering the energy to a device, wherein the device uses the energy toperform an action that is associated with the medium, and wherein thedevice is selected from the group consisting of a sensor, a controller,and an alarm.
 7. A method comprising: adding energy to anactively-transported medium, wherein: the medium is not used to power adevice; and the energy is added at a first location; transporting theenergy via the medium to a second location; withdrawing the energy atthe second location; and delivering the energy to a device, wherein thedevice uses the energy to perform an action that is associated with themedium, wherein the medium is an organism's bloodstream.
 8. A methodcomprising: adding energy to a medium, wherein: the medium is light; andthe energy is added at a first location; transporting the energy via themedium to a second location; withdrawing the energy at the secondlocation; delivering the energy to a device, wherein the device uses theenergy to perform an action that is associated with the medium.
 9. Themethod of claim 8 wherein the medium propagates through a waveguide. 10.The method of claim 9 wherein the waveguide is an optical fiber.
 11. Themethod of claim 8 wherein the added energy is added as light having awavelength that is different from a wavelength of the medium.
 12. Themethod of claim 8 wherein the energy is added via an optical amplifier.13. The method of claim 8 wherein the energy is withdrawn via a filter.14. The method of claim 8 wherein the operation of delivering the energyto a device further comprises converting the energy to a form in whichit can be used by the device.
 15. The method of claim 8 wherein theaction performed by the device is to sense a characteristic of themedium.